Kota Kinabalu: A child psychologist told the Coroner’s Court that available evidence pointed to the need for a careful assessment of external, situational and interpersonal factors in Zara Qairina Mahathir’s school and hostel environment before the incident, rather than attributing her death solely to family conflict or her internal psychological state.
Dr Noor Aishah Rosli, 51, who is also a registered counsellor with 18 years of experience, said the available data supported a broader evaluation of the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly those within the school and hostel setting.
She said Zara’s relationship with her mother should not be viewed in isolation as the primary contributing factor.
Instead, Dr Noor Aishah said the overall evidence reflected a relationship marked by attachment, love, emotional support and open communication.
The 76th deponent testified before Coroner Amir Shah Amir Hassan during the inquest into Zara’s death.
She also cautioned against drawing psychological conclusions based solely on one category of material, such as selected diary entries, without considering the wider body of evidence.
According to her, a proper psychological assessment should integrate the child’s developmental history, interviews, phone call transcripts, witness observations, school history, family background, protective factors and situational factors close to the time of the incident.
Based on her professional assessment, Dr Noor Aishah concluded that Zara’s overall psychological profile was that of a cheerful, sociable and active child who was caring, generous, motivated, had aspirations and shared a close relationship with her mother.
